Advanced Clinical Care
The Lacuna Method
A minimally invasive treatment for fungal nail infections, designed to reach the infection at its source without the need for total nail removal.
How the Lacuna Method Works
The Lacuna Method involves your podiatrist creating tiny, painless micro-pores across the infected section of your nail. These safe channels allow specialised topical anti-fungal treatments to pass directly through the nail plate to the nail bed below. By reaching the source of the infection rather than just sitting on the surface, the treatment can work much more effectively to clear the fungus and support healthy new nail growth.
Direct Action
This targeted approach ensures your daily treatments reach the infection, helping to clear fungal nails from the inside out.
The Benefits of the Lacuna Method
Minimally Invasive
The treatment only involves tiny micro-holes in the nail plate. This means there is no need for whole nail removal or painful injections in most cases.
Combined Care
The Lacuna Method can be seamlessly combined with other podiatry care. You can continue with your daily activities immediately after your clinic visit.
Broadly Suitable
Suitable for adults and even some children after assessment. It is an excellent choice for those looking to avoid oral antifungal medications.
Your Lacuna Method Journey
1
Initial Assessment
We begin with a thorough clinical assessment of your nails to confirm a fungal infection and ensure the Lacuna Method is the safest, most effective path forward for you.
2
Nail Preparation
Your podiatrist will carefully thin the nail and create tiny micro-fenestrations. This painless process allows antifungal treatments to bypass the nail barrier and reach the root of the infection.
3
Ongoing Home Care
Following your clinic visit, you will apply a prescribed topical antifungal daily at home. The micro-holes ensure the treatment remains active exactly where the fungus lives.
4
Review & Monitoring
We typically review your progress every 6 to 8 weeks. During these visits, we may clear away any damaged nail and re-apply micro-fenestrations as the nail grows out.
Lacuna Method:
Common Questions
We understand that starting a new treatment can lead to many questions. Here are the answers to the most frequent queries from our patients regarding the Lacuna Method.
Is the treatment comfortable?
Most patients find the Lacuna Method very tolerable. While you may feel a slight sensation as the micro-pores are created, it is designed to be minimally invasive and generally does not require any anaesthetic.
Is the Lacuna Method safe for everyone?
This treatment is suitable for many adults, but a full assessment is required first. It may not be recommended for those with certain circulatory issues or severe diabetes. Your podiatrist will confirm suitability during your consultation.
How long before I see improvement?
Nail growth is slow, so patience is key. While the treatment starts working immediately by allowing medication to reach the infection, it typically takes several months for healthy new nail to become visible as it grows out.
Can I wear nail varnish?
During the active treatment period, we recommend avoiding standard nail varnish as it can block the topical treatment from entering the micro-pores. We can advise on safer alternatives if necessary.
Is it right for everyone?
While effective for many types of fungal infections, it works best when the infection hasn't reached the nail matrix. An initial clinical assessment is essential to determine the most effective path forward for your specific case.